Meaning & Definition of word "Illegal"

Illegal

/ɪˈliːɡəl/

adjective:

  • 1. Not allowed by law; unlawful.
    • Example: The sale of alcohol to minors is illegal in most countries.
  • 2. Contrary to or forbidden by law.
    • Example: He was arrested for illegal possession of firearms.
  • 3. Not authorized by law or regulations.
    • Example: They were operating an illegal gambling ring.
  • 4. Not in accordance with the rules or regulations of a given system.
    • Example: The plaintiff filed a suit over illegal dismissal from her job.

Etymology

From Latin 'illēgālis', from 'in-' meaning not, and 'lēx' meaning law.

Common Phrases and Expressions

illegal activity:

Any action that is against the law.

illegal immigrant:

A person residing in a country without official permission.

illegal download:

The act of downloading content without authorization.

Related Words

lawful:

In accordance with the law.

forbidden:

Not allowed; prohibited.

contraband:

Goods that are illegal to import or export.

Slang Meanings of illegal

Meaning: On the down-low

Example Sentence: He's doing it on the down-low, so it's a bit illegal.

Meaning: Off the books

Example Sentence: She's getting paid off the books, which is illegal.